Drive Screws to Secure Tread to Riser

What happens in this clip

Using the drill (or an impact driver for faster action), drive the screws into the pre-drilled and countersunk holes. Tighten the screws until the tread and riser are pulled firmly together, but avoid over-tightening to prevent stripping the screw or splitting the wood. Check underneath the stair nose to ensure the screws have not come through the riser, confirming proper measurement and pilot depth. This mechanical fastening eliminates the movement causing the squeak.

Goal: Mechanically fasten the stair tread to the riser to stop movement and squeaking.

What's used

Tools

• Drill DeWalt
• Screws

About the full video

This project provides two effective DIY methods to fix annoying squeaky stairs. The first method involves using diluted PVA glue to penetrate and secure loose joints. The second method, ideal for situations without access from underneath the stairs, uses screws to firmly attach the stair tread to the riser. Both methods aim to eliminate the movement that causes squeaks.

Step 3 of 6: Secure Loose Tread/Riser

Once you have accessed the underside of the stairs and located the loose connection between a tread and a riser, the next step is to secure them. This is typically done by driving long wood screws through one component into the other. If the tread is loose on the riser, drive screws from the underside of the tread up into the riser. If the riser is loose on the tread, drive screws horizontally through the riser into the tread. It is critical to use screws that are long enough to get a good grip in both pieces of wood but not so long that they will poke through the visible surface of the stair. Pre-drilling pilot holes can help prevent the wood from splitting, especially in hardwood.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Fix Squeaky Hardwood Stairs from Above

1. Step 1: Locate Squeak Source

   • 0:00–1:23 Identify Squeak Source
   • 2:46–5:26 Identify Squeak Points and Mark Drilling Guides
   • 0:44–1:08 Identify Squeak and Gather Materials for PVA Method

2. Step 2: Access from Above

   • 0:14–0:34 Fix Squeaks from Underneath with Shims
   • 0:03–1:05 Identify and Prepare Problem Area
   • 0:56–1:24 Apply Screws or Blocks for Stability

3. Step 3: Secure Loose Tread/Riser

   • 6:29–7:31 Drive Screws to Secure Tread to Riser (this video)
   • 6:13–6:27 Secure Front Treads with Screws
   • 2:05–4:08 Reinforce Risers and Treads with Adhesive and Timber

4. Step 4: Address Loose Stringers

   • 0:09–0:13 Secure Lower Stringer Section
   • 0:56–1:24 Apply Screws or Blocks for Stability
   • 1:24–2:44 Fix Squeaks on Carpeted Stairs

5. Step 5: Test for Squeaks

   • 4:28–5:00 Test the Repaired Stairs
   • 0:46–0:52 Fix Squeaks on Hardwood Stairs with Screws and Putty
   • 11:15–11:37 Final Inspection

6. Step 6: Conceal Screw Heads (Optional)

   • 1:12–1:17 Conceal Screw Holes
   • 0:22–0:30 Fill Screw Holes with Wood Putty
   • 4:26–4:39 Conceal Screw Heads